How To Hit Topspin In Tennis

We have already covered topspin in our topspin and slice article, but let’s refresh our memory. Topspin is a type of spin added to the ball to control its trajectory, speed, and behavior after the bounce. The main goal of topspin is to create a heavy shot that travels fast through the air but drops earlier into the court due to the forward rotation of the ball. This makes topspin shots much safer than flat shots while still being aggressive.

How to Hit a Topspin Forehand in Tennis

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The basic forehand technique still applies, but with a few adjustments. To hit a forehand with topspin, we continue using the recommended forehand grip mentioned in the article “Tennis Grips”, the Eastern grip.

During the preparation phase, the racket drops slightly lower than usual. The contact point should be around waist height and slightly in front of the body. Immediately after contact, the wrist rotates upward, similar to a windshield wiper motion, with the racket finishing high over the opposite shoulder in the follow-through.

How to Hit a Topspin Backhand in Tennis

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The key principles for a topspin backhand are similar to those of the forehand. The racket drops slightly lower during preparation, and contact is made around waist height. After contact, the wrists continue rotating upward throughout the swing, finishing high over the opposite shoulder. For right-handed players, the finish goes toward the right shoulder, and for left-handed players, toward the left shoulder.

How to Hit a Topspin Serve in Tennis

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The topspin serve is more challenging to execute correctly, but it is absolutely worth learning. Grip choice is critical here. We strongly recommend using the Continental grip for the serve rather than the Eastern grip, unless you are a beginner looking for a safer but more limiting option that can be difficult to change later.

To hit a topspin serve, also known as a kick serve, you can still use the Continental grip, but you may shift slightly more toward the left for right-handed players, closer to bevel number one. This grip adjustment allows more brushing action on the ball, resulting in increased topspin.

The toss for a topspin serve can be controversial, but we recommend tossing the ball above your head and slightly to the left side for right-handed players. This position encourages you to swing up and through the ball, creating more kick and bounce rather than simply brushing straight upward.

Overall, adding more topspin to your game is essential for any player looking to improve. Fast flat shots can only take you so far. More experienced players can handle pace more easily, but heavy topspin shots consistently cause problems and give you a clear advantage on the court.